Born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) – a life-threatening fetal abnormality of the diaphragm – Jordan received blood transfusions during his short life. Those transfusions gave his parents more time with their son.

“We never understood the importance of giving blood, nor the significant role that the Red Cross plays in facilitating the provision of blood to those who need it, until our son’s life hung in the balance,” Brandi said.

Blood products can be used for trauma victims – due to accidents and burns – heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, premature babies, when there are complications during childbirth, and for patients receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or other diseases.

This is the second year for the memorial blood drive that Brandi hopes will bring awareness to CDH.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

All blood drives will be held at the Hays Blood Donation Center, 208 E. 8th St.

May 7–9 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

May 10 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Blood is a perishable product. Red blood cells have a shelf life of only 42 days so they must be replenished constantly.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.